And just like that, the team-building portion of the season has commenced. We’re on to 2018.
Belichick and McDaniels staying, at least one more go-round with Tom Brady, and a bunch of really good players returning from injury. As we turn the page on 2017 and the loss to the Eagles, next fall is already looking promising if only by getting Julian Edelman and Dont’a Hightower back alone. Not to mention Derek Rivers, Harvey Langi, Shea McClellin and others like Tony Garcia, etc.
There are two places the Patriots must start — left tackle and running back. From there the dominos will fall, into external free agency and the draft.
Here are the headlines of what’s coming this offseason and an early feel on the needs.